An encrypted 3,300 page eye-witness account of life in Restoration England has been cracked by a team of academics. The diary, written by 17th Century Cambridge alumnus Roger Morrice, was published for the first time this August.

Spanning the years from 1677 to 1691, the diary covers the reigns of Charles II and James II, and the events of the “Glorious Revolution” which heralded the start of English parliamentary government. The diary, titled “Entring”, is now being considered as a rival to writings of Samuel Pepys as an account of life during Restoration Period.

But despite the text’s obvious importance it has lain nearly forgotten in London’s Dr Williams library for almost 300 years. All previous attempts to use Morrice’s work have been thwarted by the fact that he coded 40,000 of his words in an attempt to protect himself. Morrice was a strongly anti-Catholic Puritan and anti-Tory who may have been passing information to senior figures opposed to Stewart rule. The transcription has taken seven years, and the team, led by Cambridge historian Mark Goldie, had to recruit an expert on 17th century shorthand to help decipher the text.

It is hoped that the diary will enhance our understanding of the period, as Morrice’s account of 17th century life contrasts starkly with Pepys’. Pepys was optimistic after the restoration of the English monarchy while Morrice felt that life under Charles II lacked the morals of the previous Cromwellian regime and feared a Catholic counter-reformation.

But Dr Goldie claims the book’s appeal lies in more than its potential to illuminate 17th century political history. “It also covers publishing, plays, business, military and religious matters. We hear about foreign affairs, public opinion, London life, gossip and rumour, plays and coffee houses, books and censorship.”

Alex Clymo

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